search
Get Started
search
Paris qui dort - Silent Film
zoom_in Click to enlarge

Paris qui dort

description Paris qui dort Overview

"Paris qui dort" is a 1923 French silent science-fiction comedy directed by René Clair, also known internationally as "The Crazy Ray." The plot centers on a night watchman who awakens atop the Eiffel Tower to discover that a mad scientist's ray has frozen everyone else in Paris in their tracks. He and a group of travelers who arrived by airplane roam the immobilized city, exploring the sudden lack of consequences. The film is an early example of cinematic science fiction and showcases Clair's playful, experimental approach to the medium.

help Paris qui dort FAQ

What is Paris qui dort about?

A night watchman wakes on top of the Eiffel Tower and discovers that a mad scientist's ray has frozen everyone else in Paris. He and a small group of unaffected people then move through an eerily motionless city.

Why is Paris qui dort also called The Crazy Ray?

The alternate English title refers to the scientist's ray, which stops Paris in place. The original French title is Paris qui dort, and René Clair directed the film in 1923.

Is Paris qui dort science fiction or comedy?

It is a 1923 French silent science-fiction comedy. René Clair uses the frozen-city idea for both surreal visual jokes and a playful adventure around the Eiffel Tower.

Why is the Eiffel Tower important in Paris qui dort?

The Eiffel Tower is where the night watchman first discovers that the city has been frozen. It gives the 1923 film a distinctive high viewpoint before the characters explore Paris at street level.

Reviews & Comments

Write a Review

rate_review

Be the first to review

Share your thoughts with the community and help others make better decisions.

Save to your list

Save your favorites and follow how their scores change over time.

Save favorites
Track changes
Compare scores

Already have an account? Sign in

Compare Items

See how they stack up against each other

Comparing
VS
Select 1 more item to compare